Originally Posted by
weary
Alder saplings are strong and light. The one I used on the AT weighed 9 ounces. My current model weighs 12 ounces because I installed a commerial hand grip and strap from Komperbell.
I have used similar sticks that were as light as 7 ounces. Alder has little or no commercial value, and is available free in alder thickets all through the north. But I've found it is amazingly strong for its weight. I've used mine scores of time to knock off dead branches that block my path while bushwhacking.
Look for a sapling ranging between three-quarters of an inch and one inch in diameter. Peel off the bark and let it dry in the sun for a couple of weeks. I tend not to use a strap, but if you want one drill a hole and insert a piece of raw hide. A crutch tip will improve traction on rocks, and prevent wear.
A wooden stick will double as a monopod for your camera. Just saw the top off flat, drill a seven-sixteenth hole and epoxie in a 1/4-20 hex head screw.
You can cover the camera mount with a round wooden drawer pull with an epoxied in 1/4-20 hexhead nut. Hold the nut in with a screw until the glue sets.
Weary